Ryan Gravenberch could face another positional change at Liverpool after impressing for Holland in a more advanced midfield role at the World Cup. The Dutch international, who was converted into a defensive midfielder by former Liverpool boss Arne Slot two years ago, has been playing as one of two advanced midfielders for the Netherlands, ahead of Frenkie de Jong.
Gravenberch's Evolution at Liverpool
When Arne Slot took over from Jurgen Klopp as Liverpool manager two years ago, he transformed Gravenberch into a defensive midfielder. The switch paid immediate dividends as Liverpool romped to a record-equalling 20th league title, with Gravenberch voted among the best Premier League players of the season. However, Gravenberch admitted opponents had adapted: "Now I don't get the ball as much, they know how we play and they want to close the middle. It makes it a little bit difficult for me but I have to find the way through."
Last season, Slot gave Gravenberch a freer role, allowing him to contribute more in attack. The Dutchman scored six goals and provided six assists, up from just four assists the previous campaign. But this came at a cost: Liverpool conceded 53 goals in the Premier League, their most in a 38-game season, partly due to reduced defensive solidity.
World Cup Performances
At the World Cup, Gravenberch has played as one of two advanced midfielders ahead of Frenkie de Jong. He assisted both goals in a 2-2 draw with Japan and played key roles in wins over Sweden and Tunisia, setting up a round-of-32 clash with Morocco. Gravenberch said: "A lot has changed in the last two years. For example, that I started playing more at my club, which allowed me to secure a starting spot. It feels good to play in a World Cup like this, the highest stage, so that is great to experience. My areas for improvement? Sometimes I need to recognise situations better on the ball and off the ball. There is still room for improvement."
Netherlands coach Ronald Koeman echoed this: "Two years ago, his situation was different. You only really develop when you play every week, and that has happened. When he went to Liverpool, he became a starter, but there is still room for development in recognising situations in matches. But he has taken big steps, and that has really shown."
Iraola's Tactical Plans
Gravenberch's next challenge comes under new Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola, who replaced the sacked Slot earlier this month. Iraola, who previously used a 4-2-3-1 formation at Bournemouth, typically deployed at least one defensive-minded midfielder in the double pivot. This contrasts with Gravenberch's recent shift away from a number six role.
Gravenberch signed an improved six-year contract with Liverpool earlier this year, indicating both parties see his long-term future at Anfield. However, Liverpool are not actively pursuing midfield reinforcements, though questions remain over the futures of Curtis Jones and Wataru Endo, both approaching the final year of their contracts, and Alexis Mac Allister, who has not been offered a new deal amid interest from Spain.
Gravenberch's World Cup displays suggest his future may lie in a more advanced role, giving Iraola food for thought as he prepares for the new season. A possible new role awaits the versatile midfielder upon his return to the AXA Training Centre.
